And yet, its proponents say the practice has a solid place in the 21st - century classroom because looping has been known to strengthen student -
teacher bonds, improve test scores, expand time for instruction, increase parent participation, and reduce behavioral
problems and
placements in special education programs.
Through a project called Algebra by Design, funded by Lucent Technologies, we are working with
teachers in grades 5 - 12 in the Syracuse City School District to (a) increase significantly the number of students who are successful in learning the core ideas of algebra, (b) increase the depth of algebraic understanding of all students and enhance their
problem - solving skills in mathematically challenging design projects and activities, (c) provide
teachers with experience and collaborative support in the use of Standards - based curricula, design projects, and current and emerging technologies, and (d) prepare new
teachers in partnership with practicing
teachers through observations, field
placements, and semester - long internships.